Question time in federal parliament

WHAT WE LEARNED

* The federal budget will be brought forward to April 2 to allow for a May election.

* Parliament offered its heartfelt sympathy to the family of the late Bonita Mabo AO.

* Former Liberal MP Julia Banks now sits on the crossbench.

* The Hobart "city deal" will be completed before the next election.

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WHAT THE GOVERNMENT WANTED TO SPIN

The government is securing Australia's future with a surplus budget.

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WHAT LABOR WANTED TO TALK ABOUT

Scott Morrison has failed to explain why Malcolm Turnbull is no longer prime minister.

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WHAT THEY SAID

"Given that his minority government is consumed by division, dysfunction and chaos, was it a mistake for the current prime minister to replace Malcolm Turnbull?" - Opposition Leader Bill Shorten.

"Our government is getting on with the job." - Prime Minister Scott Morrison.

"Life teaches us many lessons." - Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack.

"Does the minister agree with herself that this Liberal government is widely seen as, and I quote, 'homophobic, anti-women, climate change deniers'." - Labor deputy leader Tanya Plibersek to Minister for Women Kelly O'Dwyer, following the leaking of comments made in a Liberal meeting.

"We want women to have an equal stake in our economy and in our society." - O'Dwyer, not denying she made the comment.

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TWEETED

@SwannyQLD Budget is recovering despite the Govt not because of it - would be in much better shape if they didn't run a protection racket for the biggest tax loopholes which favour the top end of town. #qt #auspol